May 3.--Major-General
Schofield, with three divisions of the Twenty-third Army
Corps, arrived at Cleveland, Tenn., from Charleston at 10.30
a.m.: the head of his column arrived at 10 a.m. He passed
through Cleveland, and camped for the night in the vicinity
of Blue Springs. Being ordered to start from Cleveland upon
the arrival of General Schofield, the Third Division, Fourth
Corps, left Widow Tucker's at 12 m., the Second Division left
Cleveland, and the First left Blue Springs at the same hour.
General Cruft's brigade (First Brigade, First Division),
being posted at Ooltewah, marched at 12 m. to join the Third
Division and to march with it to Catoosa Springs, where it
would join General Stanley's command. It camped this evening
with General Wood. The Third Division marched to the
intersection of the old Alabama road with the road that runs
from Red Clay to Ooltewah, and there camped for the night.
Made headquarters of the corps with this division. Along this
route the roads in very good condition, country well wooded,
and plenty of water. The First Division (Stanley's), with the
Second (Newton's) following, marched to Red Clay and encamped
for the night. Colonel McCook, with one brigade of cavalry,
marched with this column. The day was bright and warm;
nothing of importance occurred during the march.

May 4.--Broke up camp
and marched at 5 a.m. Headquarters moved with General Wood's
column on the road to Catoosa Springs via Salem Church.
Arrived at this point at 9.30 a.m. The surrounding country
was reconnoitered, and General Wood's division was placed in
column on the right of the road on which he marched, his
pickets extending so as to connect with those of our forces
at Ringgold. Major-General Stanley's division and General
Newton's broke camp at 5 a.m., moving from Red Clay down the
road to Catoosa Springs via Ellidge's Mill, Colonel McCook's
brigade of cavalry moving on a road to the right of the
column, and arriving there at 10.30 a.m. Major-General
Stanley s division was encamped on the left of the Salem
Church and Catoosa Springs road, his right joining with
General Wood s left, and one brigade of General Newton s
division joining on General Stanley's left; the remaining two
brigades of General Newton in reserve on our left. General
McCook's brigade of cavalry encamped on the left and in
advance of General Newton. The line faces southeast and is
along a ridge which covers Catoosa Springs, the left is about
'one-half mile in a direct line west from Burke's Mill.
McCook's cavalry is in that vicinity picketing the road
toward Varnell's Station and Parker's Gap. The wagon train is
at Salem Church; this is about two and a half miles from
Parker's Gap. Such wagons as-contained baggage, &c.,
necessary for present use, were brought forward to-day to the
three divisions. The train will remain in park at the church
until further orders. The road over which General Wood's
column marched to-day was good and dry; but little water
until Salem Church was reached; from that point to Catoosa
Springs it is bad, and without being "worked" would
be almost impassable in some places with heavy trains when
muddy; it is also very narrow, small undergrowth of pine,
&c., growing very close to it; with the exception of a
few isolated places trains could not pass on this part of the
road; it runs through a depression in the hills, and a small
rill that courses along it would badly wash it after heavy
rains. Opened communication from Catoosa Springs to Ringgold
by signal. An aide-de-camp, staff of Major-General Thomas,
reported from Ringgold at 3 p.m. Nothing of importance
occurred during the day. The rebel outpost in one place,
where it was observed, was watching our movements. Major
Mohrhardt, chief topographical engineer of the corps, arrived
this p.m. from Cleveland and reported for duty. Day clear and
warm.

May 5.--Remained in
camp. General Howard rode to Salem Church and vicinity to
reconnoiter the country and examine the roads. Major-General
Thomas arrived from Ringgold at 10 a.m. General Howard
returned about 11 a.m. General Thomas gave instructions to be
ready for orders to march toward the enemy with as little
transportation as possible. Ordered corps, division, and
brigade headquarters to move, when orders came, with one
wagon each; divisions to take only enough wagons to carry two
days' rations and forage; to take ammunition wagons and
wagons with tools. General Stanley, under this order, reports
that he will require seventy-eight wagons. General Newton
that he will require seventy, General Wood that he will
require eighty-five. The rest of the train parked at Salem
Church to proceed at the same time to Ringgold via Parker's
Gap, fill up with rations and forage, and then wait for
orders. One or two small squads of the enemy (scouts) have
been seen in front of our left during the' day. All quiet;
nothing new. The day clear and very warm.

May 6.--Remained in camp
at Catoosa Springs. Major-General Howard started over to
Ringgold at 8 a.m. to see Major-General Thomas, but on the
way there he met Major-General Sherman coming to Catoosa
Springs, and returned with him. Major-General Sherman arrived
at headquarters Fourth Corps at about 9 a.m. Division
commanders called to see him. He gave General Howard orders
and instructions in reference to our movements--general
orders and general instructions. At 12.30 p.m. received
orders from Major-General Thomas, directing this corps to
march to-morrow (7th) at daybreak on Tunnel Hill by the road
from Lee's to that point, co-operating with Major-General
Palmer, who would march direct on Tunnel Hill, the object
being to drive the enemy from there should he be in force,
this corps to take him in flank, while General Palmer would
attack in front. Major-General Schofield has been ordered to
march on Varnell's Station and to feel toward our left.
Colonel McCook, commanding First Division Cavalry, was also
ordered to move under directions of Major-General Howard. At
2.30 p.m. Major-General Howard and staff rode to Doctor Lee's
house and vicinity to reconnoiter the roads thereabouts, and
to take a view of the Tunnel Hill range. Part of the staff
returned at 4 p.m., and the general and the rest of the staff
rode to Ringgold, he to consult with Major-General Thomas at
5 p.m.; this in accordance with instructions received. At 5
p.m. orders were given to division commanders to march the
next morning as follows: The First Division to lead, moving
via the Alabama, or the old Federal, road and the first road
to the right after leaving Ben. Clark's house; the Third
Division to follow; the Second Division to move via Burke's
Mill to Doctor Lee's house; General (or Colonel) McCook's
cavalry to move in conjunction with General Newton, and he to
consult with General N[ewton.] It is the intention to
ascertain first whether the enemy occupies Tunnel Hill range
in force; if not, the hill to be taken possession of, the
First Division forming a junction with Major-General Palmer's
corps (Fourteenth), which has been ordered to move directly
on the tunnel from Ringgold, and the Third Division forming
on the left of the First; the Second Division to be massed in
reserve opposite our left, as a strong cover to our left, and
to await the arrival of Major-General Schofield's corps
(Twenty-third), which, since the order was given to go to
Varnell's Station, has been ordered to move and take
position, with its right resting at Doctor Lee's and its left
at Ellidge's. If the enemy are found in force, it will be
necessary to take the ridge at the most accessible points,
and then change front toward the tunnel. The First and Second
Divisions are to draw out at 4.30 a.m. to-morrow, and the
Third at 5 a.m. The wagon train that accompanies the troops
will leave Salem Church at 5 a.m., pass Catoosa Springs, and
camp at some point on the Alabama road near the Springs, to
be indicated by a staff officer. The rest of the corps train
will leave Salem Church at daylight for Ringgold via Parker's
Gap. Major-General Howard returned from Ringgold at 7.15 p.m.
Nothing new in our front to-day. The pickets of the enemy
have been seen, but they are very quiet and not disposed to
show themselves. Day very warm and clear.

May 7.--Movements were
made at 4.30 and 5 a.m. as directed. Our cavalry skirmishers
met the enemy's cavalry skirmishers at Doctor Lee's house and
Widow Gillilan's at 6 a.m., and skirmished all the way to
Tunnel Hill. At 6 a.m. General Newton reported that he had
arrived at Doctor Lee's home and was taking position as
directed. At 6.15 verbal orders were sent to division
commanders to consolidate their trains in the vicinity of
Clark's house, under direction of Captain Schoeninger, acting
assistant quartermaster. General Howard, after visiting
General Stanley's division, and then General Newton's, at
Doctor Lee's house, at 6.45 a.m. joined General Wood's
division. After waiting at Gillilan's house for General
Stanley's division to pass at 7.30, soon rode forward and
joined General Stanley's column, which was obliged to move
slowly on account of the skirmishing in front and on account
of the road from Gillilan's to Tunnel Hill being blockaded by
timber that was felled across the Same by the enemy. Before
being able to reach the head of the column which was
advancing, General Stanley sent a messenger back, stating
that there was nothing but cavalry at Tunnel Hill, but that a
division of rebel infantry was reported to be beyond it.
Reached the front on the ridge opposite Tunnel Hill at 8.45
a.m. Cruft's brigade, of First Division, was there, General
Cruft having communicated with Davis' division, of Palmer's
corps, with the Second and Third brigades of his division,
General Stanley swinging around to Tunnel Hill range, and
gained possession of the northern extremity of it and then
advanced toward the tunnel. At 9.20, while at Cruft's
headquarters, we caught a rebel signal message stating
that---

Fighting on Tunnel Hill;
skirmishing on right of the tunnel. No news from
Cleveland. Can't see station.

BAINE.

Skirmishing
continued in front of Cruft's division. The enemy opened
artillery fire on Davis; did not amount to much. At 10 went
to join General Stanley, ascending the north end of Tunnel
Hill. General Stanley met no opposition, except from
skirmishers, the enemy's cavalry having fled upon his
approach. Joined General Stanley just as he took the hill, at
the tunnel. It was taken at 11 a.m. Sent General Thomas a
note informing him of this fact. Fine view of Buzzard Roost
and Rocky Face Ridge from here. Rebel infantry, about a
brigade, was seen over at the gap in Rocky Face Ridge,
probably there as a post of observation. Formed as though for
reconnaissance and started toward our position, but upon
firing a few artillery shots at them they retired. At 11.05
a.m. received a note from Major-General Schofield, stating
that his command was at Doctor Lee's house and his cavalry at
Varnell's Station. This note was sent by him at 9.30 a.m.,
and at 11.20 a reply was sent to him, informing him of our
position. At 1 a.m. received note from General McCook, dated
Tunnel Hill road, giving his position, one brigade at
Varnell's Station, the other on the left of General Newton,
and asking whether he should unite his brigades. As General
Thomas and General Elliott, chief of cavalry, were present,
they replied, sending him instructions. As soon as Tunnel
Hill was gained General Stanley was placed in position, his
line extending along the summit of the hill, the right
resting on the road that crosses the same, running from
Ringgold to Dalton, and joining with the left of Palmer's
corps. Next in line was Wood's division, his right joining
Stanley's left, and also extending along the summit of the
ridge. Newton's division was massed in reserve in the valley
at the foot of the ridge, in the rear of General Wood's left,
and in such position as to re-enforce the First or Second
Division or General Schofield at Doctor Lee's house. At 3.30
General Cruft reported rebel infantry column passing his
front toward his right. At 4.45 two or three of our guns on
the right opened on some rebel cavalry that were seen moving
about in the valley between Tunnel Hill and Rocky Face Ridge.
About 12 m. Generals Sherman and Thomas arrived on Tunnel
Hill, and Major-General Howard reported to them. Nothing
further of interest occurred during the day. There is no
water on Tunnel Hill, but it is quite convenient and in
sufficient quantities at the base thereof on the side toward
Ringgold. The road from Doctor Lee's to Ringgold is very
good, but was full of felled timber, placed there by the
enemy. The day has been very warm, and several men have been
sunstruck. About 4 or 5 killed and wounded in the Fourth
Corps during the day. The troops bivouac on Tunnel Hill and
at General Newton's position to-night. Orders were received
from Major-General Thomas at 9 p.m. Ordered the Fourth Corps
to threaten Buzzard Roost Pass, to occupy, together with
other forces, Tunnel Hill, and to get if possible a force on
Rocky Face Ridge. The threats on Buzzard Roost not to lead to
battle unless the enemy comes out of their works. If the
enemy leaves Buzzard Roost Gap, to follow them. At 9.30 p.m.
orders were sent to Major-General Stanley and
Brigadier-General Wood to strengthen their picket-lines and
push them forward as skirmishers at 6 the next morning, and
at the same time to make a show of their force for the
purpose above mentioned. At the same time General Newton was
ordered to move a brigade to the north end of Rocky Face
Ridge and to send a regiment to the summit of it, moving
along so as to try and capture the rebel signal station, the
rest of the brigade to support the regiment.

May 8.--Brigadier-General
Newton moved at 6 a.m., as directed. At 6.30 received a
dispatch from General Stanley, stating that the valley
between Tunnel Hill and Rocky Face was covered with dense fog
and that even the top of Rocky Face could not be seen, and
wished to know whether he should go ahead. He was informed
verbally by General Howard that he should wait until after
the fog lifted. Stanley and Wood started at 8.30 a.m. Left
headquarters for front at 7.45 a.m. At 8 a.m. sent a note to
General Thomas, stating that General Stanley would fire a few
shots at the enemy near Buzzard Roost, which was done at 8.30
a.m. Before starting our skirmish line at 8.30, sent word to
General Davis that we would do so, and requested him to see
that the enemy did not get between us. 8.50 a.m.,
aide-de-camp of Major-General Sherman reported that during
the absence of General S[herman] at General Schofield's and
General Thomas at Hooker's, General Howard would command the
forces operating in the center. Immediately afterward sent a
note to General Palmer, informing him of this fact, and asked
him to put his troops under arms and advance them a little so
that the enemy might see them. 9.30, firing on the left,
Newton skirmishing. Skirmishing also opposite right of
Stanley, and left and center of Wood. 9.30, sent Captain
Stinson to see General Schofield to let him know what we are
doing. 9.50, messenger returned from Stanley. Stated that he
was waiting for Palmer to form. Then sent word to General
Davis (commanding division, Palmer's corps), that Palmer had
been directed to get under arms and advance skirmish line,
and requested him to do so without further orders. At 10 a.m.
signaled message to Palmer, requesting him to get under arms
and advance his line of skirmishers slowly in conjunction
with our line; object, to direct attention from Newton and
Schofield. General Wood reports rebels on Rocky Face Ridge
opposite him. 10.40, Lieutenant Freeman reported from General
Newton, one regiment from Harker's brigade was one mile in
advance of the signal station. Signaled this information to
Stanley and Wood, also to General Whipple, chief of staff, at
10.45 a.m., telling him also about the skirmishing. 10.50,
sent an aide-de-camp to General Newton, telling him to push
up the rest of Harker's brigade to the support of the
regiment on the ridge, and to face his division so as to
prevent the brigade from being turned; this to be done if he
thought it practicable. 11.20, General Stanley reported the
rebels still in possession of the signal station on the
ridge; that his skirmishers were talking with them. It
appearing that the messenger was mistaken as to what signal
station one of Harker's regiments had passed, the dispatch to
General Whipple of 10.45, informing we had taken the station,
was corrected 3 this in a dispatch at 11.45 a.m. 11.30 a.m.,
a staff officer was sent to General Newton to inform him that
the rebels were marching along the summit of Rocky Face
Ridge, from our right to the left, and for him to instruct
Harker to be ready to defend himself. At 11.35 Major Howard
returned from General Newton and informed the general that
Harker had only reached half way- from the north end of the
ridge to the rebel signal station, where he met the enemy in
force. At that point the ridge was very narrow; not a company
could march abreast on it, and cliffs on either side. At
12.30 a.m. instructions were sent to Generals Stanley and
Wood to press forward as soon as Harker could take the signal
station. 12.30, General Sherman arrived; had conversation
with General Howard, and left. 12.45, by direction of General
Sherman, General Palmer was directed to move Baird's
division, with the leading brigade in column, down the road
on which his left rested, so that the enemy might see it.
12.50, instructed General Stanley to prepare his batteries to
act in immediate front if necessary. 1.10, directed General
Wood to press forward his skirmishers, taking care to keep up
communication with Stanley. 1.20, signaled to General Sherman
that the rebels appeared to be moving in force along the
summit of Rocky Face Ridge toward Harker. 1.25, sent word to
Stanley to keep the two pieces of artillery below with him,
and that the rest had better be kept on the hill. At 1.40
General Howard went to General Sherman; then went to General
Stanley.; then to General Davis (of Fourteenth Corps), and
found that he was just ready to push out a force to take
Round Top Hill, directly in front of his division, and nearly
at the head of the valley, on the west of the ridge, and
almost in front of Buzzard Roost Gap. At 2.40 sent word to
General Wood that Newton had been ordered to push Harker's
brigade along the summit of the ridge until he could take the
signal station, if possible, and that General Howard had gone
to conduct a reconnaissance with Stanley's troops. At 3.30
sent word to Stanley to send forward skirmishers in
conjunction with General Davis and to be ready to support the
movement if necessary. At 3.40 sent word to Wood that Davis
was just about to make reconnaissance and drive the enemy
from hill in his front, and that he must press back the
enemy's skirmishers from his front. 4 p.m., Stanley's
artillery opened upon the rebel pickets in their rifle-pits,
and the skirmishers went forward. The rebels were driven from
the hill, which Davis took possession of, and their
rifle-pits, which Stanley's skirmishers took possession of.
At 4.15 Major Howard, who had taken orders to General Newton
to take the signal station on Rocky Face Ridge, returned and
reported that the position held by the enemy was such that
Harker did not wish to attack him without further orders, and
that General. Newton wished directions in this matter.
General Howard sent back word for General Newton to examine
the ground in person, and not to attack this evening if he
deemed it inexpedient. The attack was not made. Rebel soldier
captured by Stanley's skirmishers says glad he was captured.
Was an intelligent man, and gave a story that is partly
corroborated by what is known. Further, he says, considerable
artillery in the valley east of Rocky Face Ridge, northeast
of Dalton; nearly the whole of Johnston's army there;
Stewart's division on Rocky Face Ridge. The rebels are going
to fight, and in good spirits. Hood's and Hardee's corps in
the valley. Loring's division has come from Rome; seven
divisions besides Polk's; estimates divisions at about 6,000.
They have dammed up Mill Creek so that we will have to swim
it. They have been fortifying for several days on Rocky Face
Ridge, &c. 6.05 p.m., General Newton directed to go into
camp in the position he was occupying, and to connect pickets
with General Wood if possible. 7.30, received orders from
General Thomas to send re-enforcements to General Wood, and
to instruct him to continue his reconnaissance as far as
practicable. Immediately sent a note to him, asking what
re-enforcements he needed, and where he needed them; also, to
reenforce his skirmish line, if it was too far advanced, and
to connect it with Harker's. At 9 p.m. General Wood replied
that he did not need re-enforcements; that he had told
General Barry, of Sherman's staff, that he had pushed out his
skirmish line to a great distance without being followed by
solid lines, and out of this remark grew the supposition that
he needed re-enforcements. His line united with Harker's. At
9.15 p.m. (based upon verbal instructions received from
Major-General Thomas) sent note to General Newton stating
that General Thomas desired to take possession of Rocky Face
Ridge in the morning, and that he would make a demonstration
down the valley, and try to ascend the eastern slope of the
ridge, taking the enemy in flank and reverse; the movement to
commence at 6 a.m. At 10.50 p.m. sent word to Schofield,
telling him that Newton would try to carry the ridge as
stated, and asking him to cover his (Newton's) left. At 11
p.m. received note from General Stanley stating that he held
all the ground that his skirmishers had gained through the
day, and if necessary he would send out two brigades to
support it in the morning. At once replied, "All
right," and stated that General Palmer would make a
reconnaissance up to the enemy's works at 6 in the morning,
and that he would support Palmer's line with his right
brigade. At 11.15 p.m. sent General Wood word of the work
laid out for Newton in the morning, and directed him to keep
connection with Newton's skirmish line, and to feel his way
carefully up the heights, and not to engage his main line if
he could avoid it. At 12 p.m. sent orders to
Lieutenant-Colonel Remick, commissary of subsistence, and
Lieutenant-Colonel Hayes, quartermaster, to bring up three
days' rations and forage in the morning from Ringgold. We
lost about 15 men killed and wounded in Newton's division
during the skirmish on Rocky Face Ridge, and but 3 or 4 in
other two divisions. The day was very clear and warm. Troops
in good spirits. While on skirmish line this p.m. General
Howard's clothes were pierced by a rebel bullet.

May 9.--Left headquarters for the front at 6.05
a.m. 7.15, went up on Rocky Face Ridge, and the general
ordered skirmish line to advance up the side of the ridge in
front, and to keep the attention of the enemy. Went to
General Stanley's headquarters at 7.45 a.m., and at that time
received note from General Palmer, dated 7.20, stating that
he saw a column of troops moving along the crest of Rocky
Face north; seemed to be large. Replied that a demonstration
in our front had been ordered, and that Newton would carry
the ridge if possible. General Schofield's corps has formed
with its right resting on Newton's left, being just in the
gorge at the end of the ridge. Skirmishing commenced this
morning at 6.30. 9.05 a.m., General Newton reports that the
rebels in Harker's front are falling back to a stronger
position, and that he thinks Harker has taken the signal
station. This information at once sent to Generals Stanley
and Wood, and Wood was instructed to send word along his
skirmish line of this fact, and to tell them to be cautious
and not fire into Harker's line; to keep up connection with
it. Received a dispatch from General Newton, dated 8 a.m., at
9.10, inclosing dispatch to him from Harker, dated 7.15 a.m.,
stating that the enemy was falling back, and that he had
taken two strong positions. His artillery was working well.
He also sent report of a deserter, who stated that two rebel
brigades, Pettus' and Brown's, eight regiments each, were on
the line in front of Harker; that Loring's, Walker's, and
Cheatham's divisions were on summit of ridge, extending from
the signal station to the Buzzard Roost; rifle-pits run down
the ridge into the valley. Sent this information to General
Sherman. 9.15, General Howard went to General Wood's
headquarters. 9.30, sent word to General Stanley of Harker's
progress, and asked him whether he could push a column up the
side of the ridge covered by skirmishers. At 10 he reported
in person at headquarters, saying that it could not be done
without great loss, perhaps not then. His skirmishers were a
short distance from the top--100 yards from the top, and they
had arrived at a place where there were almost perpendicular
cliffs. At 10.15 General Howard went to join Colonel Harker
on ridge. At 10.20 ordered the artillery that had been firing
since 8.40 at the enemy on summit of ridge in front of Harker
to cease firing. At 11.10 a.m. received dispatch from General
Newton stating that he was up against the rebel signal
station, and could not make headway, as the rebel works were
very strong. Sent copy of same to General Thomas. Skirmishing
still continues in Harker's front and between Wood's and
Stanley's skirmishers and the enemy. At 12.45 General Howard
returned from General Newton. At same time General Stanley
reported that his skirmish line had gone up on west side of
the ridge as far as they could climb--up to the palisades.
General Newton's entire division on the ridge; ascended at
the north end of it. At 12.05 p.m. General Howard sent
dispatch to General Thomas, stating that with the exception
of at a few points it was impossible to ascend or descend
Rocky Face; that Harker could not progress on account of the
narrow pass and the obstructions in his front previously put
there. I p.m., General Howard received a dispatch from
Newton, stating that Schofield was advancing in the valley
east of him, and had engaged the enemy's skirmishers, and
that all signs were that the enemy was retreating. This was
sent to General Thomas. At 1.05 p.m. notified division
commanders that three days' forage and rations had been
received for them at Tunnel Station. 1.15 p.m., General
Howard went over to see General Sherman in reference to
movements and orders, wishing to be ordered to join Schofield
in case the enemy was retreating. At 2 p.m. received a
dispatch from General Sherman, saying: "Press at all
points and occupy the enemy, taking advantage of any success.
General McPherson is through Snake Creek Gap." 2 p.m.,
Newton signaled that Schofield was advancing, but had not
reached the enemy's works. 2.10 p.m., General Howard returned
from General Thomas' headquarters and reported that he
(General Thomas) said that General Davis had been waiting for
this command to support him before he moved on Buzzard Roost
to reconnoiter, but no notification of this fact had been
given, or of the fact that these troops were needed for said
purpose. General Thomas directed General Howard to
reconnoiter and feel the enemy at the head of the valley at
Buzzard Roost Gap, to develop what is there, and General
Stanley's and General Wood's divisions were ordered out for
this purpose. General Morgan's brigade, of General Davis'
division, was to lead. Orders to advance were given at 2.30
p.m. At 3 p.m. General Howard and staff went forward in
advance to reconnoiter, select points for batteries, &c.
On the way to the front received note from General Stanley,
who said that General Davis said that all he said about
support from Stanley was early in the morning, and that he
had more troops than he could use. On the way to the front
the general and staff were fired at, in passing several
different points, by rebel sharpshooters. An orderly badly
wounded; none others hurt. Went out on the skirmish line in
Buzzard Roost Gap. Remained out there the rest of the day.
The lines did not get ready to advance until 6 p.m., when
they marched out Buzzard Roost Pass, or the gorge, moving
over a small ridge running perpendicular to Mill Creek, and
coming then in plain view of the Rocky Face Ridge at the
point where it clips down to the valley, and of the ridge
lying opposite to Buzzard Roost, which was strongly
fortified; very heavy skirmishing here. The line was formed,
Morgan's brigade, of Davis' division, on the right, resting
at about the foot and on the left at the bend of the gorge.
On Morgan's left was Whitaker s brigade, of Stanley's
division, the rest of said division and Wood's division held
as support: a part of Morgan s brigade also held as support.
This threat developed not only the force of the enemy and his
guns, but the strength of his position. It would be
impossible to drive the enemy out of his works by a direct
attack. At 6.20 the enemy opened three guns from his works on
the ridge in front of Buzzard Roost Gap; hard skirmishing
until after dark. We advanced some, and gained position on
part of that part of Rocky Face Ridge just at Buzzard Roost;
also advanced some distance in front of the gorge from which
the reconnaissance was made. 8.30 p.m., received orders from
Major-General Thomas to hold corps where it now is for
to-night, leaving one division in reserve at Tunnel Hill to
hold all ground we have gained and strengthen our position.
These instructions given to division commanders. In Stanley's
and Wood's fronts the skirmishers advanced up the west side
of Rocky Face Ridge as far as it was possible on account of
the nature of the ground--large cliffs. General Newton tried
to push the rebels; drove them fifty yards; could move no
farther on account of the formation of the summit of the
ridge. The losses of the day about 200 in Fourth Corps. From
what was seen it is supposed that the enemy are in force in
our front--that is, from what was developed by the
reconnaissance this evening. But few troops and but little
artillery were shown, but such were shown in such a manner as
to lead to the belief that the enemy was hiding his strength.
10.45 p.m., orders were given to General Newton to move
Sherman's brigade from its present position to the vicinity
of the north end of Rocky Face at daylight to-morrow morning.
Day very bright and warm. General Howard and staff spent the
latter part of the day on the skirmish line; remained on the
field all day.

May 10.--Breakfast at 5
a.m.; went to the front at 5.30 a.m.; but little skirmishing
or picket-firing this a.m.; General Stanley compelled to
bring in his lines in front a very little on account of the
enemy's sharpshooters firing down from the trees on Rocky
Face Ridge into the rifle-pits he dug last night; his
position strengthened again this a.m.; the head of the corps
in Buzzard Roost Gap. 8.45 a.m., signaled Harker on the
ridge, asking the news and the condition of the enemy in
front of General Schofield. 9 a.m., this dispatch replied to
by General Wagner, stating the enemy's works on the east of
the ridge all have troops in them; artillery seen in several
places; think they are in strong force. 9.30 a.m., signaled
Colonel Harker to give us the first intimation he had of the
enemy's pushing General Schofield or attempting to turn his
left. 9.45,, began to rain; at this time opened artillery
fire from one of Wood s batteries on the enemy on the summit
of the ridge; rained until about 2 p.m. At 1 p.m. the enemy
opened fire from two guns on the summit of Rocky Face Ridge,
throwing shot and shell in Stanley's camp; no casualties
reported resulting from their fire. 3.10, received
instructions from department headquarters to prepare the
corps for movement to-night, with three days' rations and as
much more as we can carry; this order not to imply that the
troops now in front are to be withdrawn until the order to
move is given. Upon inquiry at department headquarters it was
ascertained that it was the intention that we should take all
of our wagons with us also. The foregoing instructions were
at once given to division commanders, and they commenced
preparations in accordance therewith. 4 p.m., received
dispatch from Harker stating that Schofield had fallen back
to his old position undisturbed; all quiet in his front; the
enemy appeared in our front in force to-day; none of his
troops or guns appear to have been withdrawn. General Howard
visited department headquarters at 8 p.m., and was told by
General Thomas that it was the intention to keep the Fourth
Corps in front to threaten the enemy and to resist if
attacked while the rest of the army moved to a certain point.
Lost but few men to-day. Rained very hard from 8.30 p.m. till
midnight. Remained on the field all day.

May 11.--Breakfasted at
5.30 a.m. Went to the front at 7. a.m. At 5.40 a.m. received
a letter of instructions from Major-General Thomas, stating
that it had been decided to leave the Fourth Corps, with
Stoneman's and McCook's cavalry, to keep up the feint of a
direct attack on Dalton through Buzzard Roost Gap, while the
rest of the army moved through Snake Creek Gap to attack the
enemy in force from that quarter. Stating, further, that we
would strip light and send all spare wagons to Ringgold; to
instruct the cavalry to watch well the passes at the north of
Tunnel Hill and at Ray's [Dug] Gap, where Geary is, and where
he will remain until relieved by McCook's cavalry; in case
the enemy should attack us to fall back to Ringgold, and hold
that place at all costs. The chief engineer of the railroad
will keep a locomotive and construction train to tear up the
road so that the enemy may not follow in case we retire on
Ringgold; the depot of supplies to be at Ringgold, but the
cars to bring us daily rations and forage. Morning cool and
cloudy. Visited the right at 9 a.m. At same hour sent
dispatch to Major-General Thomas informing him of the
condition of affairs in our front. Early in the morning the
enemy in Wood's front, on that side of Rocky Face Ridge,
opened musketry fire by volley on his camp. He moved his camp
a little to the rear, under cover. Appears to be a force
along the entire summit of Rocky Face, in front of Harker.
12.30, received a message from Rocky Face Ridge signal
station, stating that a heavy column of infantry was moving
through to Dalton, the enemy's advanced lines well massed,
some horses harnessed, and one little camp being struck.
12.30, Major-Generals Sherman and Schofield called at
headquarters of General H[oward], on Rocky Face Ridge. They
stopped but a few minutes. At 1 p.m. received note from
Major-General Palmer, stating that he was to move in the
morning, and, as his troops wished a night's rest, asked that
they might be relieved at 8 p.m.
A reply was at once
returned, saying that they would be relieved. At 1.30 p.m.
received note from General Newton, dated 9.15 a.m., stating
that General Wagner had been reconnoitering the enemy in his
front, and finds things the same as the day before, and that
during the night the enemy advanced his pickets in the
valley, on the east side of the Rocky Face Ridge, and that
the picket officer reports that the enemy were busy chopping
during the night opposite Colonel Harker. 1.40, too much
firing along the picket-line in front of General Wood; sent
Captain Stinson to see what it was. Reported all right; the
enemy firing. 2.10, sent word to General Wood to strengthen
the left of his picket-line at the point where it joins
General Newton's right, and to keep a good reserve for it. He
reported that he had an extra reserve of one regiment at that
point. This corps did not march this a.m., in consequence of
orders received from department headquarters directing it to
remain at this point, and to hold Buzzard Roost Gap and
Tunnel Hill while the rest of the troops went to join
McPherson via Snake Creek Gap. General Stoneman's cavalry to
be and remain on our left and McCook on our right. At 3.30
p.m. ordered division commanders to send back to Ringgold, at
daylight to-morrow a.m., all of their trains but one wagon to
a regiment, division and brigade headquarters wagon,
ammunition wagons, and hospital wagons and ambulances.
Ordered General Stanley to occupy the position now held by
General Davis, of Fourteenth Corps, at Buzzard Roost at 8
p.m., relieving Davis, and to place one brigade on the right
of the railroad and the other on the left; to place his
remaining brigade and artillery in position near signal hill,
moving to these positions under cover from the enemy's fire
and hiding them from his view. Ordered General Newton (at
same hour) to take position before morning in such manner as
to defend, as long as practicable, the gap at the north end
of Rocky Face Ridge, reserving one brigade. Ordered General
Wood (at same hour) to leave one brigade in the valley at the
base of western side of Rocky Face Ridge; to hold his
picket-line in his present position, keeping up connection
with Stanley on the right and Newton on the left, and to
place his remaining two brigades in the best defensible
position on Tunnel Hill, near the crossing of the Tunnel
Station and Dalton road. In accordance with instructions from
Major-General Sherman, ordered Major-General Stanley to make
a reconnaissance through Buzzard Roost Gap, to find out
whether the enemy was yet in his works and had not retreated.
Reconnaissance was made at 5 p.m. to dusk, with Cruft's
brigade, conducted by General Howard. Developed the enemy in
front in considerable force. Drew fire from seven guns in
different positions, but the most of them behind the same
line of works, directly in our front. The fire of the enemy's
sharpshooters very accurate (as it has been for the past few
days) and severe. Reported this fact to Major-General
Sherman. At 7 p.m. received report from a rebel deserter,
through Brigadier-General Wagner, stating that only three
divisions of the enemy now in front of Dalton; rest gone to
Resaca; some went this afternoon. Received a dispatch from
General Wagner, on Rocky Face Ridge, stating that the enemy's
regiments were leaving the valley on the west side of the
ridge, and moving toward Dalton, but that their front line
across the valley was still kept up. General Stanley yet
holds the advanced position beyond the head of Buzzard Roost
gorge that he had gained by reconnaissance of 9th. But little
picket-firing along the line during the day. The enemy did
not open his artillery from the summit of Rocky Face to-day.
Day cloudy and cool, with little rain occasionally. Spent the
latter part of the day on the picket-line. About 40 men
killed and wounded to-day in the corps.

May 12.--On the field at 8 a.m. General H[oward]
went to Newton's headquarters. Saw General Stoneman, examined
General Wagner's position, and returned to field
headquarters. 10.30 a.m., received note from General
Stoneman, stating that brisk skirmishing along his front up
to Varnell's Station, and that a force of cavalry and footmen
went up this a.m. from Dalton in direction of Cleveland. At
once sent an officer to inquire when this force passed up. He
reported at 9 a.m. All the rest of the troops gone or
starting to Resaca or Snake Creek Gap, leaving the Fourth
Corps here alone. 12 m., Colonel Sherman signaled from Rocky
Face Ridge that the enemy was moving to our left in two
columns: "Infantry and artillery, heavy force; has been
passing for two hours." Replied to dispatch, "Watch
carefully and report often." 12.15, General Newton says
Colonel Sherman reports from Rocky Face Ridge that the enemy
was passing to his left in masses, double-quick, and he asked
for re-enforcements. 12.20, Colonel Sherman reports from
Rocky Face Ridge only small force in enemy's works. Heavy
masses of troops passing to our left, with large wagon train
in rear of column; he can see skirmishing toward Varnell's
Station. At same time General Wood was ordered to move up the
two brigades on Tunnel Hill to the support of General Newton,
and to leave his other brigade in its present position in the
valley, and General Stanley was ordered to open up fire at
Buzzard Roost, making a noise by way of diversion. 12.20
p.m., sent to General Sherman (or McPher-son) a report of
movements of the enemy; also word to General Newton that Wood
was to move at once to his support. 12.45 p.m., sent word to
General Geary, on the march, of movements of the enemy, and
asked him to delay his march southward. At same time sent
word of enemy's movements to General Schofield. 1.10 p.m.,
sent word to General Hazen to put one regiment on the signal
knoll near our field headquarters to make a show. 1.20,
Remington, topographical engineer, signaled from Rocky Face
Ridge that enemy's ambulances had stopped in rear of the
enemy's column, which was still moving. 2.30, signal officer
at signal hill on our right telegraphed that a line of rebel
infantry was moving left toward Buzzard Roost Gap from John's
Mountain. Sent this information to General Newton. At same
hour Remington, topographical engineer, signaled from Rocky
Face Ridge that heavy column of rebel cavalry advancing on
our left on east side of Rocky Face Ridge. 3.10 p.m., sent
word to General Geary that as soon as the enemy's intentions
were discovered, if he did not intend to attack, would send
him word to move on. 3.20 p.m., signaled to Colonel Sherman,
asking, according to his judgment, how many of the enemy had
passed to our left. 3.30, Sherman replied, "I believe
not more than one division. Rebels are advancing in line on
Harker's and Wagner's positions." 3.40, Captain Pearson
was sent to General Geary to tell him not to stop longer; he
did not know he was so far away on the march, or he would not
have stopped him; stated that it was only a raiding party
passing around our left. 3.50, telegraphed to commanding
officer at Ringgold to know what force he had; that small
raiding party was approaching R[inggold], and to hold gap
there at all hazards. 3.50, Colonel Sherman signaled,
"The enemy are withdrawing infantry and cavalry from our
front; their wagons have been sent back." He thinks
enemy had 10,000 infantry and 4,000 cavalry. 4 p.m., signaled
General Sherman that the movement of the enemy was a
diversion, and that he (the enemy) would be taken care of;
that he was already falling back. 4.15, General Newton sent
word that he thought the rebels were going to Ringgold via
Catoosa Springs or Alabama road, and that he would try to
send Stoneman to push to Ringgold as fast as he could. 5.30,
in accordance with instructions from General Stoneman,
Colonel Butler, with Fifth Indiana Cavalry, reported to
General Howard for instructions. He, together with two guns
of Captain Bradley's battery, were ordered to move to
Ringgold at once by the direct road, to assist in the defense
of that place. 5.30, sent word to. General Stoneman that
Colonel Butler had been sent to Ringgold, and that the large
columns of the enemy have returned to Dalton. 5.45, sent word
to General Wood to retain his present position to-night. At
same hour sent a dispatch by Lieutenant Freeman to General
Sherman, stating the movements of the enemy during the day,
and telling him that the raiding party that passed around our
left at 9 a.m. may be moving toward Cleveland or Ringgold,
and that had taken precautions to head them off, and that
General Geary was stopped through mistake, as it was
supposed, by information received, that he was just leaving
camp for the march. 6.15, Colonel Sherman signaled that as
the enemy, who advanced toward our left, returned to Dalton
he counted twenty regiments. 6.45, received dispatch from
Lieutenant-Colonel Mil-ward, at Ringgold, stating that he had
only 300 men, and that he had notified the commanding officer
at Parker's Gap of the approach of the raiding party. Replied
at once that a regiment of cavalry and section of artillery
had been sent to his assistance. At 7 p.m. telegraphed to
Colonel Butler to return in the morning from Ringgold, and to
bring the section of artillery as soon as he could find his
horses. At same time sent word to General Stoneman that
Colonel B[utler] had been ordered back. 7.10, received note
from General Stoneman, dated 6 p.m., stating that after
driving the enemy off from his front he was led to believe he
(the enemy) was making for Ringgold; he therefore sent a
portion of his command to Tunnel Gap to hold it, if possible,
and to push for Ringgold, if the enemy went there; that part
of his force at Varnell's Station also ordered to push for
Ringgold, if the enemy went there. 9.30, General Stone-man
reported all quiet on his left. 9.40, Colonel Sherman reports
at 7 p.m. the enemy in force as usual in his front on Rocky
Face Ridge. Day clear and warm; dusty.

May 13.--2.30 a.m.,
received a dispatch from General Sherman at Villanow, saying,
"Feel the enemy's lines to-night with infantry and
cavalry, and, if possible, follow him if he is returning
south; also stating that he was at Villanow and would start
for McPher-son; asking to signal to him the appearances from
all points in our possession. Villanow will be held by
Garrard until he gets through. 3 a.m., signaled General
Sherman that we felt the enemy at dark; found him in force,
about 20,000. 3.30 a.m., sent written order to General
McCook; also verbal order by Captain Kirlin to Generals
Stanley, Stoneman, and Newton, to satisfy themselves at
daylight whether the enemy was yet in their front, and to
inform the major-general commanding of the fact. 6.15 a.m.,
received report from General Stanley stating that the enemy
had gone, and he possessed his works at 5 a.m. 6.30, received
report from General Hazen that Rocky Face Ridge was
evacuated. General Stoneman arrived at headquarters at 6.
6.30 a.m., sent Lieutenant Gilbreth to Snake Creek Gap to
inform Major-General Sherman of the evacuation of the enemy
in our front. As soon as the news of the enemy's retreat was
heard Generals Stoneman, Stanley, Newton, and Wood (Wood's
division, all save Hazen's brigade) were ordered to push
after the enemy at once. General H[oward] left headquarters
at 7 a.m. for Dalton. At 1.30 this a.m. the enemy retreated,
going to Resaca, where they intended to fight, so they say.
General Howard reached Dalton at 9 a.m. At once signaled
Major-General Sherman that we were in Dalton. Stanley
[started] at this time and met the rear of the enemy's
column, and had a slight skirmish. Doctor Heard sent back to
order Hazen's brigade up to join Wood's division. 10.40 a.m.,
General Stanley ordered to push his division forward beyond
Dalton toward enemy, and keep General H[oward] fully advised
of his position and condition, and was informed that McCook's
cavalry would protect his right flank. 10.50, received
dispatch from Stanley, wishing to know which road to take
beyond Dalton; replied at Once he would push forward slowly
until the cavalry would come up on the Sugar Valley road,
watching his right. 11 a.m., General Newton arrived at
Dalton; head of his column just coming into town. 11.20 a.m.,
General Wood arrived; head of his column just coming into
town. 12 m., Generals Newton's and Wood's columns passed
through town; at same time directed General Newton to leave a
regiment to hold the town and protect the depot. 3.45 p.m.,
General Sherman signaled, "Press the retreat of the
enemy with cavalry, supported by infantry, and open signal
communication." The command moved from Dalton toward
Resaca, on the Sugar Valley road, Stanley leading, then
Newton, then Wood. About four miles from Dalton the rear
guard of the enemy opened fire with artillery and musketry on
the head of our column. He was soon driven back. On this
account column was delayed one hour. Marched four miles more,
and was met by McCook's cavalry, which had been moving on
road to our right; here halted. Stoneman's cavalry moved from
Dalton on direct road to Resaca, so as to cover our left. At
last halt, eight miles from Dalton, received intelligence
that the enemy were in strong line of battle about one mile
to our left. Put our forces in line, and sent out skirmishers
to develop this fact. Also ordered Stoneman and McCook to
feel the enemy. About dusk McCook came up with the enemy;
skirmished until an hour after dark, and reported that the
force was cavalry, supported by infantry; said to be Bate's
division; went into camp for the night at the place we
halted, as just mentioned.? p.m., Major-General Stoneman
reported his position. He came up with the enemy, one brigade
of infantry, with artillery, and about 500 cavalry, in too
strong position to attack. 8.15 p.m., sent General Sherman
word of our position. 10 p.m., ordered division commanders to
be ready to move at sunrise to-morrow. Sent word to General
Stoneman, at 11 p.m., that McCook would cover our front and
left as far as Tilton and Resaca road, leaving to him the
Tilton and Resaca road and the country to the left of it.
11.15, General Stoneman reports the enemy's rear guard quite
strong, of all arms, and that if a night march could be made
to Tilton this rear guard could be cut off. 12 midnight,
received note from Major-General Sherman, asking to have the
railroad repaired to Dalton:

Move cavalry force forward
carefully, supported by infantry; select on south front
of Dalton for forts, in case the enemy should turn; have
not discovered whether he is at Resaca or not; think he
is about Swamp Creek; keep your troops light and feel to
the right. Have a good force at the gap of Snake Creek.
Tell McCook and Stoneman to strike the retiring wagons of
the enemy.

McCook's
cavalry opened communication with General Sherman at about 7
p.m. to-day. Schofield's left about one mile from our right.
Took about 100 prisoners. Day clear and warm. Lost very few
men in wounded in skirmish of today. Roads good, but very
narrow. Dense woods on either side the latter half of
to-day's march Plenty of water.

May 14.--2.30 a.m..
instructed General Stanley to move directly on enemy's rear
guard at sunrise in the morning, marching across Swamp Creek,
toward Tilton. 2 a.m., instructed Colonel McCook to move
toward Tilton, covering General Stanley's right. Informed
General Stoneman, at 2 a.m., of this contemplated movement,
and instructed him to press hard when he heard our guns. At
2.45 instructed Generals Newton and Wood to be ready at
sunrise in the morning to move to the support of General
Stanley or to fight in position. 5 a.m., received dispatch
from General Sherman directing General Howard to effect
junction with General Schofield and to report to
Major-General Thomas for orders. General Schofield will
inform him of the instructions that have been given. 5.15
a.m., received dispatch from Major-General Thomas to move our
troops down the main roads toward Resaca until a junction is
formed with the rest of the army, when further orders will be
given. At once gave orders for the corps to march, in
accordance with General Thomas' orders. Marched command at 6
a.m., General Stanley's division leading, then Newton, then
Wood. Left headquarters at 6.30 for front. Stanley commenced
march at 5.30 a.m. for the direct Dalton and Resaca road.
General Newton and General Wood following, marched at sunrise
on the road parallel and about two miles to the right of
General Stanley. All wagons but the ammunition wagons ordered
to move on Sugar Valley road; ammunition wagons to follow
divisions. 7.30 a.m., the head of Newton's column reached
Widow Swift's house. 8.45 a.m., came up with General
Schofield on the left of the line of battle, as it was then
formed, fronting Resaca. Received verbal instructions from
General Thomas, through General Schofield, to form on his
left in line of battle, in the prolongation of the line as it
then was formed. At once sent word to General Stanley to
cross over and form on General Wood's left. At 9.30 commenced
to form line of battle. Some little confusion, caused by
General Cox (who was on Schofield's left) being lost with two
brigades; formed though, on his left regiment, which was
isolated. A gap was then between this regiment and Schofield,
and Newton temporarily filled it until Cox came up. 12.30,
sent note to General Thomas or Sherman, stating that Stanley
was passing down the road just below Tilton, telling about
the gap in our line, and saying would push slowly and
concentrate as we advanced. Our line was coming into position
about 1 p.m., center of line about four miles from Resaca. At
1 p.m. sent word to Wood to advance, pushing out his
skirmishers well. Stanley, who reported his command near by,
was at the same time instructed to advance as General Wood
advanced. Newton was now advancing on left of Schofield, and
Wood was instructed to move to right oblique and close up on
him. 1.10, General Cox, of Twenty-third Corps, got into line.
1.15, Stanley joined on Wood and Wood on Newton. Lines now
advanced and heavy skirmishing with the enemy commenced. The
line of battle was formed in rolling country, with occasional
cleared fields, but we had not advanced more than 300 yards
when we came into a wilderness, through which it was almost
impossible to pass. Added to the dense forest and undergrowth
were steep, narrow ridges, running perpendicular to Resaca.
It was almost impossible to move the troops in line through
this country. Our advance was very slow, owing to the natural
obstacles the country offered and the heavy fire of the
enemy. General Schofield drove the enemy out of the first
line of rifle-pits in his front. Colonel Harker's brigade, of
Newton's division, occupied the first line of the enemy's
rifle-pits in his front and he still holds them. General
Hazen drove the enemy out of two lines of rifle-pits in his
front and occupied them, still holding them, and General
Stanley drove the enemy in his front. These rifle-pits were
occupied by Harker at --p.m. and Hazen at -- p.m. Harker's
brigade was relieved by part of Colonel Sherman's. Our lines
now became so contracted that Newton could only operate part
of one brigade at a time in front, the rest being in reserve,
and Hazen's, Wood's and Willich's brigades, Beatty's being in
reserve, and Stanley's, Whitaker's, and Grose's, Cruft's
being in reserve. Stanley's left, the left of our line and
the extreme left of this army, now rested on the direct road
from Dalton to Resaca. There was much danger of its being
turned by the enemy, and a battery was placed in position,
supported by part of Cruft's brigade, to repel a flank attack
which might be made at this point. At about 5 p.m. General
Stanley reported a heavy column of the enemy moving around to
his left. Support was asked for, and General Thomas at once
sent to this point General Williams' division, of Hooker's
corps. This division arrived just in time to drive the enemy
back, as he was already driving away the support to the
battery. He was handsomely repulsed. This was about sundown.
Afterward Hooker's corps was moved into position on our left,
having been transferred from a position on the right of our
army. Thus matters stood at dark. We had gained considerable
advantage, and were now pressing the enemy on all sides. At
10 p.m. sent General Thomas a report of our situation and the
result of the day's work. In accordance with instructions,
breast-works were thrown up along our front, on the ridges we
occupied at dark, before morning. Three hundred and fifty-two
wounded; about 50 killed. The day was clear and warm.

May 15.--5 a.m.,
received orders from Major-General Thomas, dated 1.30 a.m.,
stating that this corps and Hooker's would attack the enemy
"in the morning directly down upon Resaca;"
Schofield, when he became crowded out of his present position
in line, to move around to his proper position on the extreme
left (this was done, before the attack of the a.m.
commenced), and General Palmer's corps would remain in a
defensive position, holding his strong position on the right
(General McPherson to operate on the extreme right against
the enemy's communications). As soon as this order was
received it was sent to division commanders, with
instructions to examine the enemy's most vulnerable points in
their fronts with a view to attack, and informing them that
this corps would conform its movements with General Hooker's.
At 7 a.m. went to General Hooker's headquarters. Generals
Howard and Hooker had consultation about the attack. At 9.40
a.m. sent word to General Stanley that General Hooker would
make an attack on the right of the Dalton and Resaca road,
and instructed him as Hooker advanced to reserve one brigade
and to follow up the movement with the other two brigades of
his division. At same time sent word to Wood of the order of
attack, &c., and instructed him to select vulnerable
points in the enemy's lines of works in his front, and, as
soon as he saw him wavering from General Hooker's attack, to
seize the points by columns, and to follow up any advantage
he might gain. At same time sent word to General Newton of
the order of attack, &c., and that he was to make a
demonstration in his front at the time of the advance of
General Hooker, to hold the enemy in his front, and that he
would follow up any movement of General Wood. The enemy hold
a very strong position in our front, ravines and open fields
between us, and he is posted on a strong series of ridges,
with well-constructed breast-works and artillery, with direct
and enfilading fires. General Hooker's advance did not
commence until after 12 m. During the mean time fire of
sharpshooters, skirmishers, and of artillery was kept up all
along our line. 1 p.m., sent word to Major-General Hooker, by
Colonel Asmussen, his assistant inspector-general, and also
by Captain Stevens, of General Stanley's staff, to call on
this corps for re-enforcements whenever he wished them. 1.10
p.m., sent word by a staff officer to division commanders
that Hooker was ascending the hill he was to storm on our
left, and that they must now push ahead and press the enemy.
2.20, Colonel Asmussen reported that General Hooker had
secured a lodgment on the ridge, and that he wished the
Fourth Corps to make a demonstration and he would advance
along it. A demonstration was made along our entire line.
Generals Hazen and Willich, of Wood's division, stormed the
enemy's works in their front, but the force of the enemy was
so strong, and the direct and enfilading fire of artillery
prevented them from holding the enemy's lines which they
took. The demonstration had the effect to hold the enemy in
our front, and to prevent him from massing in front of
General Hooker. At this time General Whitaker's brigade, of
Stanley's division, was in the rear of Hooker, waiting orders
to advance, while Schofield's command was acting as an
immediate support. 2.50 p.m., General Hooker sent word that
he did not wish us to do anything more than to open artillery
on the enemy. At same time seat word to General Hooker, by
Lieutenant Gilbreth, that it would be done, and offered to
afford any assistance General H[ooker] might call for. 4.40
p.m., in accordance with orders received from General Thomas,
Generals Stanley, Newton, and Wood were ordered to press
their skirmishers. This was done, and fire continued along
our line until dark. There was scarcely any cessation of fire
along our whole line, in fact, from daylight until dark.
General Hooker secured a good lodgment on the ridge opposite
our left, but was unable to pursue, on account of heavy works
and masses of the enemy's troops. The enemy's sharpshooters'
fire very accurate and severe, and many men were killed and
wounded along our lines by them. We kept up a fire of
artillery all night and also of skirmishers. About 11 p.m.
General Newton's skirmishers pressed up to the enemy's works
to find out whether the forces in our front were retreating.
Found them there in force, and they fell back under a very
heavy fire. The enemy also charged our lines in Newton's
front during the night and were repulsed. Our losses during
the day about--. Day clear and warm.

May 16.--5.15 and 5.20,
reports came from division commanders, stating that the enemy
had abandoned their works on their fronts, and that our men
were entering them. 6 a.m., sent orders to division
commanders to move forward to the town of Resaca at once.
7.30 a.m., established corps headquarters in Resaca. Our
troops commenced to arrive in Resaca at 8 a.m. 9 a.m.,
received orders from Major-General Thomas, saying that we
would pursue the enemy beyond Etowah River, and that we would
move "substantially" along the railroad to
Kingston, together with the rest of General Thomas' command.
At same time orders were sent to General Stanley to leave one
regiment behind as guard at Resaca, and to bring down the two
regiments he left at Ooltewah to relieve the one so left
behind. Also, at same time, instructed General Wood to bring
up the three regiments he left behind, the one at Parker's
Gap, the two at Cleveland, and at this time sent orders by
Captain Kaldenbaugh to the division commanders to pass over
the river at R[esaca], moving to the left of General
McPherson's troops. The enemy had burned the railroad bridge
and some of the main stringers of the wagon bridge. We had to
repair the latter, so that the command could not commence to
cross until about 11 a.m. 11 a.m., ordered wagons of corps to
park at Resaca until ordered up, and ammunition wagons to be
filled upon the arrival of the railroad train from Dalton. 2
p.m., ordered five ammunition wagons for Wood, five for
Stanley, and four for Newton, to accompany the troops. The
crossing of the Oostenaula slow on account of bad condition
of bridge. General Newton had the advance, then Wood, then
Stanley. About one-half mile from Resaca heavy skirmishing
with the enemy commenced, and our progress was therefore much
impeded. We moved on the direct road from Resaca to Calhoun.
Reached a point two miles from R[esaca] at 4.25 p.m., when we
met a deserter, who informed us that the enemy was drawn up
in line of battle, three brigades of infantry, one mile and a
half from our left front. Instructed division commanders to
watch well their left flank, to move part of their force as
flankers along the railroad, and to move all of their
artillery on the dirt road. Deserter further reported that
the enemy evacuated their works in our front at from midnight
to daylight; that Polk's corps moved on the road upon which
we are marching, Hardee's on the road to our right, and
Hood's on the road to our left. 4.30, heard heavy firing off
to our right, and in advance on our left, in the direction of
McPherson's troops. 6.45 p.m., arrived at point within
one-half mile of Calhoun. After heavy skirmish here, driving
off regiment of infantry and rear guard of cavalry, went into
camp to bivouac for the night. Newton lost 2 men killed and 5
or 6 wounded in skirmishing. The day was bright and warm;
roads very dusty. Not much water on the road of to-day's
march. Country rolling, covered with dense woods and
undergrowth; occasional clearing; many ridges, but not high;
very good road. 7 p.m., sent dispatch to Major-General
Thomas, informing him of our arrival at this point, &c.
10 p.m., Colonel Hayes ordered to send up all of our loaded
wagons from Resaca to-morrow a.m., to follow the command; to
start if possible before Palmer's corps; if not, immediately
afterward, but not to interfere with the movements of said
corps. Losses up to date, from time of leaving Catoosa
Springs, killed, 189; wounded, 1,078.

May 17.--Received no
instructions in reference to to-day's march. Therefore
started on the direct road to Kingston at 5.30 a.m., General
Newton's division leading, then Wood's, then Stanley's.
Wood's division moved on the railroad. 6.20, orderly returned
from Resaca; said he could not find Colonel Hayes. At once
sent staff officer to deliver to him the same instructions in
reference to trains as contained in last night's note.
Commenced to skirmish with the enemy as soon as we reached
Calhoun. 7.30 a.m., the enemy opened fire upon our advance
from two pieces of artillery. 7.30, sent word to General Wood
to send two regiments to our left as far as advisable, as
flankers, which was done. 7.45, sent a staff officer over to
the Rome road to open communication with General McPherson.
At 8.20 he returned, and reported that General McP[herson]
was moving down said road about two miles to our right. Owing
to continued skirmishing with the enemy and occasional
artillery firing, our advance was very slow. From 5.30 a.m.
to 4 p.m. we only marched about eight miles, arriving at that
time two and a half miles from Adairsville, with Newton's
division moving on the direct road. At about the same time
the head of General Wood's column arrived three-fourths of a
mile from Newton, on our right, on the railroad. Here and at
this time the enemy stubbornly resisted our advance, having
now opposed to us infantry, cavalry, and artillery. 4.20,
General Wood reported that citizens from Adairsville had just
informed him that there was a large force of the enemy's
infantry in Adairsville. Commenced, after heavy skirmishing,
to form a line of battle to drive the enemy from our front or
to repulse any attack that he might make. His line was formed
running across and at right angles to the road leading to the
town. On the right of the dirt road, running parallel to it
and ending very nearly on the line of battle, was a low
wooded ridge. On this rested the right of Newton's formation,
which was a column by regiments, prepared for an assault. On
the left of the road, extending through a wheat field and to
the woods, rested his left, in two lines of battle. 4.30,
word was sent to General Wood to move upon the enemy at once
from the position he occupied. This he could not do until he
bridged a creek in his front, which could not be done before
dark. At same time General Stanley was ordered up to cover
Newton's left flank, as the enemy was moving around it.
During all of this time we had heavy skirmishing, and the
enemy firing artillery on Newton. 5.30, Stanley got into
position, two brigades on the left of Newton, extending into
the woods and holding a small hill therein, and the other
brigade massed in the rear of Newton's left. 6 p.m., assault
was ordered to be made by General Newton, and was just about
to be made, when Major-General Thomas, who had come up with
Major-General Sherman, stopped the movement, saying that it
was too late in the evening to make it. The enemy kept up a
steady fire along our line until dark, when it ceased. 7
p.m., General Wood reported his bridge finished, and, if
General H[oward] would advise it, he would cross some troops
over and assault the enemy, who, he said, was intrenched and
was at Adairsville in force. General H[oward] replied,
telling him to cross over and throw out strong line of
skirmishers to feel the enemy's position, but he would not
advise a night attack. Wood's left was now not far from
Newton's right. The road we marched on was very good. The
country along the road was rolling, and covered with dense
woods and undergrowth, with occasional cultivated fields. It
was admirably suited for the movements of the enemy's rear
guard, he being able to make a stand, as he did, every few
hundred yards, During the day we lost about 25 killed and 170
wounded. The first part of the day very warm; heavy storm
from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The next day we found out that the
greater part of Johnston's army had been in our front and
that the enemy had well-constructed rifle-pits.

May 18.--5.30, General
Newton reports that the enemy have left their rifle-pits and
positions in his front. Instructions were at once given to
division commanders to march, following the enemy, and to
press him closely; General Wood leading, then Newton
following, then Stanley. We marched at 6 a.m. 8.40, Colonel
Hayes, who was with the column in advance, was ordered back
to Resaca to bring up all of our trains, and was instructed
to take any regiment of this corps at R[esaca], or that might
arrive there in time, or on the way here from there, as a
guard. 8.45, ordered by General Sherman to halt our column on
the other side of town until McPherson could come up, and to
form with strong head of column, so that if Johnston offered
battle we would be prepared for him. 8.50, ordered General
Wood, when he moved forward, to take the road that hugs the
railroad. 9.45, division commanders ordered to instruct their
ordnance officers to send to Resaca for all needed
ammunition. 11.15 a.m., division commanders ordered to draw
out their commands and to start on the march at 1 p.m. 12 m.,
instructions given division commanders in reference to trains
as follows: Each five ammunition wagons to follow divisions;
after the corps, thirty wagons; then the rest of the train to
follow the Fourteenth Corps, which follows this corps on the
march. The order of march was, Wood to send two brigades on
the dirt road and one on the railroad running parallel, while
Newton was to send one on dirt road and two on railroad;
Stanley to follow Newton. Were ordered by General Sherman to
camp six miles from Adairsville. Reached the point designated
at 6 p.m., on Connasene Creek; camped. No force of enemy
sufficiently large to impede our march met in our immediate
front. Very little skirmishing. Roads fine; country rolling
generally; many well-cultivated fields. Deserters report this
evening that the enemy has retreated beyond Kingston.

May 19.--Head of column
moved forward at 5 a.m., marching on the direct road to
Kingston, Major-General Stanley's division leading, Wood's
following, then Newton's. Very little skirmishing on the road
as far as Kingston. 8 a.m., one-half of a mile beyond the
town met a force of the enemy posted on a ridge running at
right angles with the road; appeared to be cavalry and
infantry. Citizens report Cheatham's division to be there.
They opened six guns upon us and a brisk skirmish fire.
Stanley's division went into line of battle. 8.30, advance of
the line was ordered, and at same time Wood was ordered up as
a support. The line was advanced and the enemy retired. 9
a.m., was ordered by General Sherman to advance down the road
leading to Etowah, four miles to a point near an old mill,
where the road and railroad crosses, then to go into camp. 12
m., arrived at a point within one-half mile of said mill,
where we met the enemy drawn up in line of battle. At least
one division could be seen, with breast-works of rails. At
once commenced to form in line of battle on some ridges that
run at right angles to the road. In our front, extending
about one mile from the base of the ridge, were broad, open
fields; on the other side of these were the enemy's lines.
One-fourth of a mile from the road, on our left, the ridge
runs down to the railroad and a creek that runs perpendicular
to it. On this creek our left rested. On the right of the
road the ridge extended a little in front of our left, and
then swept off to our right, and, in a short distance, turned
to our rear. Stanley's division was on the left; then Wood's.
Newton's division followed the railroad, and went into
position on our left. 12.45, an aide-de-camp reported from
Major-General Thomas (who had been informed of our situation)
that Palmer's corps was coming up, and he would take care of
our right. 1.10 p.m., General Newton was directed to relieve
General Wood's brigade on his extreme left, and to supply its
place by a brigade from his own division. 1.30, opened
artillery on the enemy. 2 p.m., advanced a strong reserve
line for the support of the skirmish line. The enemy at once
commenced to retreat, and at same hour (2 p.m.) Stanley and
Wood were ordered to advance. They had not proceeded more
than one-fourth of a mile when Major-General Thomas ordered
them to halt until Newton could mass on our left, on the
opposite side of the creek, and drive out the forces that
could be seen in the woods that appeared to be turning our
left flank. 2.45, orders were given to Newton for said
movement, and it was consummated. 3.50, advance commenced.
The enemy was driven by us. We again took up the march in
column, and again met the enemy one mile beyond his first
position at 5.30 p.m. Halted and formed line of battle. 5.40
p.m., General Sherman ordered General H[oward] to put thirty
or forty pieces of artillery in position; form two or three
brigades in line of battle; then to shell the woods in our
front vigorously; afterward feel the enemy. 4.50, artillery
fire commenced. 6.30, firing ordered to cease and skirmishers
ordered forward, followed by main lines, Wood on right and
connecting with Baird's division, Fourteenth Corps; Stanley
on Wood's left, and Newton yet on the left, connecting with
Stanley; Newton connecting with General Geary's division, of
Hooker's corps, having formed such connection at about 5.30
p.m. The line advanced, trying to move to Cassville.
Skirmishing very heavy and progress quite slow. 7 p.m., a
halt was ordered by Major-General Thomas, and he instructed
General H[oward] to adjust his 1ines and remain in present
position for the night. Were then within one mile of
Cassville. Passed through fine rolling country to-day. Many
cultivated fields. Heavy timber and undergrowth skirted the
road the greater part of the way. Day warm and clear, and
roads dusty. Eight or 10 men killed and 35 wounded to-day.
The whole of Johnston's force was before us at Cassville.
Hooker advanced down a road that came in on our left, and was
to connect with us there. The enemy thought to strike him
before we got up. The enemy had strong rifle-pits and works,
and Johnston had published an order to his troops saying that
he would make his fight there; this the night before we
arrived.

May 20.--6 a.m., Captain
Kellogg, aide-de-camp, brought instructions from
Major-General Thomas to have this corps rest in its present
position to-day, and to supply ourselves with ten days'
rations (three in haversacks and seven in wagons) from
to-morrow. Orders were at once given to division commanders
to readjust their lines, if necessary, and to place their
artillery in position, then to rest their troops; also to
send back their empty wagons to Kingston to reload, and to
park the rest of their trains, and to see that the troops
have three days' rations in their haversacks, commencing
to-morrow. Orders were also given to Lieutenant-Colonel
Remick, commissary of subsistence, and Lieutenant-Colonel
Hayes, quartermaster, to have the trains loaded with seven
days' forage and rations from to-morrow morning. 3 p.m.,
received Special Field Orders, No. 9, headquarters Military
Division of the Mississippi, May 20, 1864, stating that
General Thomas will group his army (of which this corps is a
part) around Cassville; Major-General Schofield, his army at
or near Pettit's Creek, or along Nancy's Creek, and
Major-General McPherson, his at Kingston and the fords and
bridges across the Etowah in that vicinity; also stating that
the sick and wounded and the worthless men and idlers be sent
to the rear; that army commanders will make provision to
subsist their troops independent of the railroad for twenty
days; that the whole army must be ready to march by May 23,
stripped for battle, but equipped and provided for twenty
days; at the same time the wagon trains must be diminished
rather than increased, as we can safely rely on much meat,
forage, and vegetables in the country to which we propose to
go; further stating that the rations for troops will be one
pound of bread, flour, or meal, beef on the hoof, two days'
allowance of bacon per week, and sugar, coffee, and salt;
four pounds of grain will be allowed each animal per day, and
no more; all else must be gathered in the country. In
accordance with this order instructions were at once given to
division commanders and to the chief quartermaster and
commissary of subsistence of this corps. The troops remained
in camp to-day resting; all quiet; the day very warm.

May 21.--Remained in
camp all day; the soldiers resting and being equipped for a
long reach. A telegram sent to General Sherman from the
Secretary of War, congratulating his army for its success
thus far, was read to the troops. Orders were issued to
division commanders to send all of their surplus baggage as
soon as practicable to the Cassville Depot, for the purpose
of having the same sent to the rear. They were also ordered
to organize foraging parties for each brigade for the purpose
of collecting supplies from the country, the parties to be
under the control of brigade commissaries of subsistence and
quartermasters, and that they must take stringent measures to
prevent theft and pillaging. There are 600 wagons in the
corps; 1 wagon allowed corps, division, and brigade
headquarters; 150 wagons for ammunition, 3 hospital wagons to
a brigade, 6 wagons to accompany the ambulance train, 6
wagons for intrenching tools; the rest of the wagons to have
forage and commissary stores for twenty days. Telegrams were
sent to Chattanooga for 5,000 shoes to supply the deficiency
of the command. 10 p.m., shoes and commissary stores not yet
arrived from Chattanooga. Day very warm, dry, and dusty.

May 22.--Remained in
camp all day receiving and loading supplies in our wagons and
getting ready for the march. All sick and wounded and
worthless men being sent to the rear. 4 p.m., received orders
from Major-General Thomas to march at 8 a.m. to-morrow,
following the Twentieth Army Corps, moving on the road from
Cassville to Gillem's Bridge, to cross the Etowah River at
that place, and to encamp at night on the Euharlee Creek
above the Twentieth Corps. 5 p.m., orders were sent, in
accordance with the above-mentioned order, for division
commanders to march to-mor-row, but upon verbal instructions
from Major-General Thomas not to move until 12 m.; General
Wood's division to lead, to be followed by Major-General
Stanley, both following the Twentieth Army Corps, and General
Newton's division moving to Gillem's Bridge via Saltpeter
Cave; the ambulance train to follow each division, with one
medicine wagon each, and the rest of the train to follow
General Newton's division, he (General Newton) to place one
strong regiment in rear of the train as a guard. 9 p.m.,
commissary stores not all arrived yet; train only partially
loaded. Day very warm, hot, and dusty.

May 23.--Started at 12
m., Wood leading, then Stanley, then Newton, in the order
indicated. Crossed the Etowah at Gillem's Bridge. Head of
column arrived at Euharlee Creek at 7 p.m., and, the rest of
the command following, went into camp at about 11 p.m. two
miles beyond. 11.30 p.m., received a note from Colonel Remick
stating that all of the train that had been loaded had
started for Kingston to join the command, and that the sugar
had not yet arrived, and that as soon as it did the rest of
the train would load and start. Roads good. Day hot. Road
very dusty.

May 24.--Orders of march
to-day are: Start at 6 a.m.: cross the Euharlee Creek at
Barrett's Mill; thence to Stilesborough, and follow the
Twentieth Corps and encamp on the road to Dallas, connecting
with the right of the Twentieth Corps. 6 a.m., commenced the
march; Wood's division leading, then Newton's, then
Stanley's. One of General Newton's regiments acting as train
guard relieved, and Stanley ordered to substitute one for it.
8.15, arrived at Stilesborough, and halted for General
Williams' division, Twentieth Corps, to move forward out of
the way; halted and massed Third and Second Divisions. 9.45
a.m., General Williams' division and ammunition train passed,
and column commenced to draw out and march forward. Received
instructions from Major-General Thomas to move as much as
possible through the woods alongside of road, so as not to
interfere with trains. 5.30 p.m., head of column arrived at a
point within one mile from Huntsville, or Burnt Hickory; went
into camp, Wood's and Newton's divisions on right of road and
Stanley's division on left of road; rear of column got into
camp at about 9 p.m.; the wagon train all crossed Euharlee
Creek, and, with its head at Raccoon Creek and extending back
to Stilesborough, remained for the night; it was impossible
to cross Raccoon Creek with it. 11 p.m., sent word by Captain
Schoeninger to Colonel Mackay, chief quartermaster Fourteenth
Corps, that his train must not pass ours, and to Stanley,
that if said train does get in ahead of ours to guard it with
a brigade. 12 p.m., received orders from Major-General Thomas
to march the corps at 9 a.m. to-morrow for Dallas, following
General Geary's and Williams' divisions, or on a road to the
right, which may be pointed out in the morning; orders were
sent at once to division commanders to march the next
a.m.--Newton at 9 o'clock, Stanley at 9.30, and Wood at 10.
Roads very dusty. Day pleasant. The country for the first
three miles of our march to-day was very open and well
cultivated, then we reached the hills, quite rough and
covered with pine woods.

May 25.--Troops moved as
indicated in the order of march for the day. Took the road to
the right and parallel to the Burnt Hickory and Dallas road.
8 a.m., sent orders to Colonel Hayes, at Raccoon Creek, in
the rear, to move his train over to the road on which we were
marching, and Lieutenant-Colonel Howard was sent to find a
way and conduct it over to said road. When the head of our
column reached said road, at about 10 a.m., met the head of
our train just arriving on the same. Let the baggage wagons
proceed, and then the corps moved, leaving the rest of the
train to follow. Major-General Thomas' headquarters train
also crossed over to said road and moved in front of our
baggage train, which preceded our troops. 1.30 p.m., halted
at Harding's house, said to be from six to seven miles from
Dallas; head of column one-half of mile in our rear. 1.50
p.m., Lieutenant-Colonel Mendenhall, of Major-General Thomas'
staff, reported, and said that General T[homas] was now
within two miles of Dallas, and that he wished us to join him
(he was with part of Hooker's corps) at that place at 2.30
p.m., stating that the enemy was in his front. 2 p.m.,
Captain Schoeninger, who went forward with that part of the
train in advance, returned and reported that eleven rebel
cavalrymen had fired on General Thomas' headquarters train.
General Newton was at once ordered to send forward a regiment
to guard that part of our train ahead of us. Instructions
were at this time sent to General Wood to guard the wagon
train following us and to watch on the right flank. As soon
as Colonel Mendenhall reported, orders were sent to division
commanders, instructing them to close up their columns and
hurry forward. After proceeding a few hundred yards from
Harding's house, we crossed over on a country road to the
direct road leading from Burnt Hickory to Dallas, for the
purpose of joining General Thomas. 2.20 p.m., Captain Stone,
of Major-General Thomas' staff, met us three miles from
General Thomas' headquarters, and said that the general
wished us to hurry along; sent back word that we were pushing
forward as fast as possible. 4.15, General Howard reported to
Major-General Thomas, in front on the skirmish line. Head of
column one mile back. 4.20, sent an officer to conduct that
part of the wagon train which went off to the right, on the
road via Lee's and Holland's house to Dallas, back, and to
bring it up to us; danger of being captured in the position
in which it was. 5 p.m., Major-General Hooker's troops, in
the extreme front, nearly ready to advance in line of battle.
5.10 p.m., ordered General Newton, whose column had arrived,
to go into position in the rear of General Hooker on the
right of the road. He threw lines of battalions one-half
distance, so as to be prepared to move to the front or right.
5.30, ordered Stanley in position, same formation as Newton,
in Newton's rear, on right of road, and to be prepared to
front either way; and at same time ordered Wood into
position, same formation as Newton, on the left of the road
near Turkey Creek. General Stanley was also ordered to keep
closed up to General Newton, and to move forward when he
moved. 5.30, General Hooker advanced. 6.20, General Hooker
sent word to General Howard to close up his brigades in mass
on his (Hooker's) right. He had met the enemy, had been
fighting him, and although he held his ground he was hard
pressed. He had driven the enemy behind his breast-works.
6.30, General Newton ordered to advance in line of battle.
Had gone but a short distance when he found he could proceed
in line no farther, owing to the formation of the ground, and
he was ordered to move into the road by the left flank and
advance in column until he came near to General Hooker, and
then deploy in line of battle. The same orders were sent to
General Stanley, but as he could not at first be found, it
was after 7 p.m. when he commenced to move. Orders were also
sent to General Wood to draw out in the road, advance to
within supporting distance, and to go into line of battle on
the left of the road. The troops moved slowly on account of
the crowded condition of the road, full of stragglers and
wounded men retiring to the rear; but one road, very narrow,
and dense woods on either side. 7.30, commenced to rain very
hard and continued until about 10 p.m. General Newton got
into position at about 8.30 p.m., and General Stanley 9.30
p.m. General Wood, who was moving along the road, was, at
9.40, ordered to halt and bivouac along side of the road, on
the left, for the night. No part of the corps became engaged
to-day. 11 p.m., our train reported-in park, on Raccoon
Creek, about seven miles back. At this hour thirty ammunition
wagons were ordered up, to come up at once. Very pleasant day
for marching; warm, but no dust. Hard to find safe roads
through the country; full of heavy woods, cross-roads,
&c., and could procure no suitable guides. All
intelligent persons had left the country, or had been driven
out by the enemy. Roads good, but narrow.

May 26.--Took breakfast
at 3.30 a.m., and went to the extreme front. 5 a.m., received
instructions from Major-General Sherman to place the troops
of this corps in the front on the left of the road and
connecting with General Hooker on the right. Placed them in
position, Newton on the right and his right resting on the
road, his First Brigade in two lines and his Second and Third
Brigades in three lines; General Wood on Newton's left, with
one brigade in reserve, until General Schofield's corps comes
up (which will be on our extreme left), and Stanley's
division massed in reserve in rear of Newton. 8 a.m., Newton
ordered to move forward until he connects with General
Geary's left, General Wood to swing around, advancing, and to
keep connection with Newton, while Stanley to advance and
take position vacated by Generals Newton and Wood. Newton and
Wood ordered to push out their skirmishers well. 11.15,
General Wood was ordered to swing around his left and thus
give a direct line of the troops of this corps running east
and west. The left of Wood's skirmish line was here advanced
about one mile, and the rebel skirmishers were driven before
them. From our extreme left we now have a view of the Dallas
and Marietta road and open fields, interspersed with small
growth of timber. Found a valley below the ridge on which we
are stationed. 11.30, instructions were sent to General
Newton to swing around his skirmish line, advancing it, and
keeping up connection with General Wood's. 11.30, received
note from Colonel Remick, stating that he could not get up
our small supply train, with four days' rations, on account
of parts of Hooker's and Palmer's trains blocking the road. A
request was at once sent to General Hooker to allow {t to
pass, and General Thomas sent an order to General Palmer to
allow it to pass his train also. 1.40, General Wood crossed
Brown's Mill creek with his main line, in front of our left,
through the open fields, and getting at right angles to and
in sight of the right of the enemy's line. Bridged the creek
and took over a battery of artillery, which fired on the
enemy's works for several hours, and was responded to by a
battery of the enemy in front and on our left. 2 p.m.,
Colonel Harker directed to place two of his regiments on the
front line of his left, relieving two of Colonel Gibson's. 5
p.m., all of the artillery of the corps, which is on the
other side of Turkey Creek, sent for, and ordered to join the
divisions to which they are attached. 5.20, received
instructions from Major-General Sherman to put all of our
artillery in position this evening, to be opened to-morrow. 8
p.m., division commanders were ordered to furnish each man
with sixty rounds of ammunition during the night, and were
instructed that the three days' rations issued this evening
must last four days. Quite heavy skirmishing along our whole
line during the day. In front of the position gained by
General Wood, when he swung his division to the right this
afternoon, for one mile and a half and extending to the line
of the enemy's works, were open fields, while from his left,
and extending directly in from and to the left of the open,
were woods again. Late in the day General Schofield's
command(General Cox in temporary command) joined our command
on the left, but it did not extend in a line in the same
direction as General Wood's division, his whole line being
refused, being almost at right angles. Very pleasant day for
operations. Cloudy most of the morning; the rest of the day
clear and not very warm. The Army of the Tennessee for the
most part has been operating in the woods.

May 27.--2.30 a.m.,
received orders from Major-General Sherman, through General
Thomas, to open all of our artillery that could be got in
position early in the morning; to keep up a persistent fire
until 9 a.m., and then cease firing, unless there was
something that would warrant firing at; at 10 a.m. for this
corps to swing around to the right, advancing our left to the
south and east of the cleared valley in front of our left,
and gain possession of the commanding promontory which
commands the Marietta road; at the same hour an assault to be
made by the whole army. 4.30 a.m., gave orders to division
commanders that General Newton form in two lines, his right
resting on the road, and extending as far as he could to the
left, to the creek if possible, relieving General Stanley's
troops; that General Stanley relieve General Wood on his
line; that General Wood, as soon as relieved by General
Stanley, form a column of attack with four-regiment front,
and attack at 10 a.m., moving through the woods to the left
of his front. This order was reported to General Thomas, and
he reported it satisfactory. An officer was sent to General
Thomas at this hour to ask when the firing of our artillery
should commence, and he replied, at once. The artillery
firing commenced along our line at 5.30 a.m., and enemy
opened artillery on his right, enfilading our batteries. It
was discovered that to advance on the enemy at the point
mentioned, with Wood's division, would expose the troops to a
murderous direct and cross fire of artillery from different
points as they passed over open ground, and therefore it was
decided to form in mass for the assault on the extreme left
of Schofield's (Cox's) line, thus avoiding entering a cul-de-sac,
and turning the enemy's right flank. At 8.20 the troops
commenced to move and take position, preparatory to advancing
at 10 a.m. This was told to Major-General Thomas, and he
approved of it, and said that Johnson's division, of the
Fourteenth Corps, would come up to our support. A brigade of
Cox's command was also to form on the left of our troops, to
keep the left flank from being turned. 8.40, sent word to
General Stanley to watch the enemy's works in his front, and
when General Wood arrived opposite to help him to secure the
position he may gain. 9.05, instructions sent to General
Newton to make a strong demonstration at 10 a.m. exactly, and
General Stanley also to make a strong demonstration at the
same hour, skirmishing strongly on both sides of Raper's
Creek. Wood commenced to move at 10.55 a.m., General Howard
and staff accompanying him. Division was formed in column of
six lines. 11.15, sent word to Schofield stating that we had
moved and that our first line had advanced half a mile, and
to be ready to assist us in holding any position or advantage
that we might gain, Johnson's division, Fourteenth Corps,
following us and covering our right with skirmishers. 11.15,
also sent word by Captain Stinson that we were advancing, and
had gone half a mile without meeting the enemy. 12 m.,
Major-General Stoneman reported that some of the enemy was in
rear of our left, supposed to be cavalry. General Wood was
informed of this fact. He is half a mile from us. 12 m.,
halted to reform Wood's line to swing his left around so that
the line might move almost due south. Sent word to General
McLean, commanding brigade of Schofield's corps, on our
right, to keep up connection with us. 12.30, Wood moving
forward. 12.40, saw General Johnson, and instructed him to
move up, working to our left; that Wood had swung around, and
to keep up connection with him. 1 p.m., have advanced about
one mile and a half, and country rolling and covered with
timber and undergrowth; can see nothing fifty yards in front.
1.30, General Wood has been moving to the left by flank to
get around the enemy's line, and General McLean reports that
he was disconnecting with him. Orders were sent to McLean to
keep up connection and to Wood to move not so far to the
left. 1.45, first line of Wood's division came in sight of
the rebel Works over an open field; halted in the edge-of the
woods to make preparations to move again to our left for the
purpose of getting around the enemy's works. General Howard
at this time went to see General Johnson to inform him of the
situation and to tell him how to go into position on our
left. 2.10, Wood commenced to move again. 3 p.m., sent
request for General Schofield to swing his line around to the
right so that his line would face east and west and connect
with our right and close up the gap between us. Captain
Stinson wounded. 3.35 p.m., sent note to General Thomas
stating where we now are and telling of the difficulty of
moving over the ground, and stating that it was supposed that
we were getting around the enemy's right flank. 3.45, General
McLean reported that he was following General Johnson,
according to orders from Major-General Howard, delivered by
Colonel Howard, and that he was in advance of his corps
(Twenty-third), leaving a gap of about three-quarters of a
mile. 4 p.m., Colonel Morgan returned from Major-General
Thomas, stating that General Thomas says that Major-General
Sherman wishes us to get on the enemy's right flank and rear
as soon as possible. 3.50, a staff officer from General
McCook stated that McCook's cavalry was on our left, and that
he was trying to connect with our left. 4 p.m., General Wood
has halted and is now forming on the ridge for the attack on
the enemy's right flank; told him not to attack the enemy if
they had works. 4.55, the advance sounded. 5 p.m.,
skirmishing commences; Hazen's brigade in front. Officers
(Colonels Howard and Morgan) were sent to Johnson, requesting
him to order up his lines to the assistance of Hazen. 5.15
p.m., again sent word to General Johnson to press up a
brigade to Hazen's left; he answered that he was sending one
up, and that it would soon be abreast with H[azen]; Hazen now
becoming heavily engaged, found the enemy in his front in
force and covered by breast-works, which extended to our left
farther than we could see--beyond the reach of General
Johnson's troops also. General Wood found it necessary to
support his skirmish line with his main lines of troops. 6
p.m., received a dispatch from Major-General Thomas, dated
5.15 p.m., stating that General Howard must connect his right
with General Schofield's left, and to take up a strong
position which he could hold until he can be re-enforced, and
if necessary to do this our left must be refused; that he
must not place his troops in such a position as to risk being
turned, and to say to General Johnson that he must place his
troops so as to secure our left flank. General Thomas hopes
to have Davis' division in the a.m., and then Palmer will
re-enforce our left. General Wood endeavored to carry the
enemy's works in his front, but could not do so as the enemy
not only opened a murderous fire from their front line of
works but also terrible cross-fires from both flanks. He
planted his colors, though, within twelve feet of the
breast-works.

The enemy's artillery firing was very accurate and
effective. 6.30 p.m., General Wood(in accordance with General
Thomas' instructions) commenced to withdraw from the front,
General Johnson's troops relieving him, and to move over to
our right and little in the rear, taking the position held by
McLean s brigade, of Schofield's corps, an(t pushing McLean
over to the right, thus endeavoring to close the gap between
McL[ean] and the rest of troops of the Twenty-third Corps,
and make our connection with the same. A request was also
sent to General Schofield to connect with McLean. General
Wood was instructed to strengthen his position during the
night. The loss in killed and wounded in the corps to-day was
about 1,500, mostly in the Third Division. Day very hot. The
enemy made an attack on Stanley's and Newton's divisions at 4
p.m.; he was quickly driven back. Hazen reported this evening
that he would have taken the works in his front but Johnson
did not properly support him, not coming within half a mile
of his line; that there were no works in front of Johnson,
even two regiments of Hazen's brigade extended beyond them on
the left.

After General Hazen's skirmishers became engaged
so closely to the enemy's works it was necessary to support
them with main lines and drive the enemy into their works,
and, if possible, out of them. Without demonstrating on their
works we could not have told whether they were held in very
strong force. The position we secured to-day will enable
General Sherman to pass troops around our left for the
purpose of turning the enemy's right flank.

May 28.--Day opened with
skirmishing and artillery firing by both armies. No orders
for attack given. The general and staff visited Wood's lines
at 6.30 a.m., and Wood was then instructed to reform his
lines, his right too much refused, and to send out his
skirmishers to his right, endeavoring to connect with
Schofield. 11 a.m., orders received to make a general move of
troops to the left, but at 12 m. they were verbally
countermanded by Major-General Thomas. 12 m., a staff officer
from General Ed. McCook, whose cavalry is on General
Johnson's left, reported that a brigade of the enemy's
cavalry had pushed around McCook's left, and just coming into
our rear. There being indications that the enemy was
intending to turn our left, General Stanley was directed to
send a brigade of his division, to be posted as a reserve on
the Acworth road, between Brown's and Pickett's Mills, as
soon as possible. At 12.15 he reported that he would send
Cruft's brigade. 12.15, a report comes to corps headquarters
that the enemy is sending a large force of infantry (about
one division) toward our right, supposed to be a blind to
cover a movement to our left. 4 p.m., the enemy made an
attack on McPherson, on our extreme right. McPherson repulsed
him. 4.30, the enemy felt our lines in front of Stanley and
Newton with strong skirmish lines, and found it not wise to
attack us. His skirmishers were repulsed. The enemy's lines
now extend from the vicinity of Dallas to vicinity of
Acworth, on the railroad. 7 p.m., General Wood reported that
he made a connection with General Schofield at 3 p.m.
Skirmishing all along our front to-day. Day bright and warm.
Lost but a few men killed and wounded to-day.

May 29.--2 a.m.,
received orders from department headquarters, dated May 28
(copy of orders from Military Division of the Mississippi of
same date), stating that there would be a general move of the
army to the left, and that General Thomas would connect with
General McPherson, whose left would rest on the creek above
the saw-mill, form a line facing nearly south across both
branches of Pettit's Creek, and covering all of the roads
from Dallas to Allatoona and Acworth. The Fourth Corps will
be the right wing of Thomas' line. 6 a.m., the general
started out to ride along our front to establish the line for
this new formation. 7 a.m., General Stanley was instructed to
have his division ready to move as soon as McPherson arrived
to relieve him, and then to take position, his right resting
on the creek, and his division, in two lines, to extend as
far as he could to the left, with two brigades facing nearly
south. Orders for Newton to be given hereafter. Wood now in
about proper position for this new formation. 10 a.m.,
received orders from department headquarters to send all of
the wagons of this corps, except division ordnance trains and
a few wagons loaded with subsistence, to the rear of Pumpkin
Vine Creek, on the Burnt Hickory road. Also to park all of
our empty wagons at the same place, and to send them to
Kingston on Tuesday next for such supplies as we may need.
The train to go to Kingston at that time to be guarded by a
brigade from this corps. 11.30 a.m., sent an order to General
Stanley to furnish a brigade from his division for the train
that is go to Kingston on Tuesday. 5 p.m., received
instructions from department headquarters to direct the
officer in charge of the train guard which goes to Kingston
on Tuesday to look out for the enemy in the direction of
Richland Creek as the train approaches Stilesborough, and to
keep the train at Kingston until the arrival of General
Blair's command there, and follow it back as far as he
marches on the return route. 6 p.m., directed General Stanley
to give the above-mentioned instructions to the commanding
officer of the train guard. 6 p.m., directed Generals Stanley
and Newton that if Major-General McPherson arrived to-night
to allow him to relieve their troops on that part of their
lines he is to occupy, and to bivouac said troops for the
night in McPherson's rear. 11 p.m., the enemy attacked
General Newton in force, and he was handsomely repulsed,
losing quite heavily. Continued skirmishing along our lines
until and after daylight. 11.30, received instructions from
Major-General Thomas to open all of our artillery upon the
enemy, and to make a strong demonstration with infantry if we
heard heavy firing in the direction of McPherson's position.
2.30 p.m., heard very heavy firing on the extreme right of
our lines, the enemy evidently attacking McPherson. At once
ordered Stanley and Newton to open their artillery and to
make a demonstration. They could fire but a few rounds before
the attack on the right (which was on McPherson) ceased. It
lasted about half an hour from the time when it commenced
until we could get our artillery to working. Irregular firing
was kept up by Stanley and Newton until after daylight from a
few guns. From 11 p.m. till daylight the enemy made several
attempts on our lines, but made but one attack. Shells and
musketballs have been flying rather freely around our
headquarters to-day and to-night, as has been the case for
several days. Two or 3 of our provost-guard and orderlies
wounded. Lost but a few killed and wounded to-day. Day hot
and bright.

May 30.--(Incidents of
the morning until daylight noticed in yesterday's record.) 4
a.m., headquarters were moved to the rear of what will be the
center of our lines when McPherson arrives. 5 a.m., visited
General Sherman's headquarters. 6 a.m., received note from
department headquarters stating that Palmer needed more
troops to prevent the enemy from gaining possession of the
road leading to Burnt Hickory from our left, and that General
Cruft's brigade, of Stanley's division, was ordered to report
to him. 12 m., McPherson not yet arrived. 2 p.m., instructed
General Wood to wheel his line so as to bring it in the same
direction as his picket-line, endeavoring to make a
connection with the Twenty-third Corps. This would make his
line parallel to the blazed line; also to bring his line up
as near as possible to the open field; to barricade his front
and select positions for artillery; also to effect this this
p.m. Skirmishing through the entire day, but not so heavy as
yesterday. 9 p.m., General Stanley said that he would send
Cruft's brigade as the train guard in the a.m. to Kingston.
No night attack. Day very warm, dry, and dusty. Loss to-day,
slight.

May 31.--3 a.m.,
received from department headquarters copy of Special Field
Orders, No. 14, headquarters Military Division of the
Mississippi, stating that our lines would not be changed
to-day, but that a general activity must be kept up along our
whole front, and that to-morrow, June 1, General McPherson's
army and General Davis' division will move over to the left,
McPherson to occupy the place now held by Hooker, Davis to
join Palmer's corps; that General Thomas' command will hold
from Hooker's present left around to the hill near Pickett's
Mills, overlooking the Acworth road near Leverett's house;
that Stoneman's cavalry will move rapidly by any road east of
Pumpkin Vine Creek and secure possession of the east end of
Allatoona Pass and the bridge over Allatoona Creek, while
General Garrard's cavalry will move via Burnt Hickory and
Richland Creek to the west end of Allatoona Pass,
communicating with General Stoneman. 6 a.m., instructed
division commanders that there would be no change of our
lines to-day and to keep up a show of activity. 8.15 a.m.,
enemy felt part of our front by a bold attack with a very
heavy skirmish line. The attack commenced on Johnson's
division, Fourteenth Corps, on our left; then rolled along
Wood's division, passing to Schofield's corps (part of which
now separates Wood's division from Stanley's and Newton's of
this corps) and stopping there. General Wood's skirmishers
fell back. (Our main (front) line was then attacked, and the
enemy was quickly driven back with considerable loss to him.
10 a.m., received Special Field Orders, current series, No.
148, Department of the Cumberland, stating that upon the
arrival of General McPherson's troops General Howard will
move such portions of Stanley's and Newton's divisions as can
be spared from the trenches, with Wood's division, to occupy
the interval which will be left in the line by the withdrawal
of General Schofield's command; that at same time Davis'
division, Fourteenth Corps, will occupy the position now held
by General Wood's division, and that General Hooker will at
same time move his corps to the left and mass it behind
Johnson's left, and east of what is known as Pickett's Mills
creek; these movements to be made with as little delay as
possible. 10.15, staff officer reports that General Wood
swung his line around last night to the position indicated in
instructions from these headquarters, connecting with
Schofield, and that he had thrown up breast-works, &c. 4
p.m., Major-General Thomas has consented to leave General
Wood's division in the present position it occupies, and to
relieve the Twenty-third Corps by Generals Stanley's and
Davis' divisions upon the arrival of Major-General McPherson.
General Wood instructed to leave a thin line of troops in his
rifle-pits, and to let the rest of them rest in the rear
until there is an immediate prospect of an engagement. 8
p.m., General Newton instructed to relieve the four right
regiments of Grose's brigade tomorrow a.m., two in the front
line and two in the rear, and that those in the front line
had better be relieved at break of day. Stanley at same time
instructed to shove over his command to the left the distance
that he is to be relieved on the right by General Newton and
as much farther as possible, and to connect with General
Davis' division when he goes into position, he and Davis thus
relieving Schofield. Skirmishing kept up in our front until
dark. Day hot and dry. Loss not heavy to-day.